Argentina

The Argentina national football team (Spanish: Selección de fútbol de Argentina) enters the 2026 FIFA World Cup as the defending champions, seeking to become the first team since Brazil (1958, 1962) to win back-to-back World Cup titles. Led by the legendary Lionel Messi in what is expected to be his final World Cup at age 39, Argentina are one of the favorites for the tournament.

2026 World Cup Prospects

Under coach Lionel Scaloni, Argentina has maintained the core squad that delivered their third World Cup title in Qatar 2022. The team's blend of experience and emerging talent makes them formidable contenders. Key to their success will be the form of Messi, who continues to defy age with his performances at Inter Miami.

The squad depth is impressive, with Julián Álvarez emerging as one of the world's best strikers at Manchester City, while Enzo Fernández provides world-class creativity from midfield. In goal, Emiliano "Dibu" Martínez remains Argentina's penalty shootout hero.

Group J Analysis

Argentina has been drawn into Group J alongside Algeria, Austria, and Jordan. While Argentina are heavy favorites to top the group, each opponent brings unique challenges:

• Algeria — A passionate North African side with talented players from top European leagues. The Fennec Foxes will be determined to make their mark.
• Austria — A well-organized European team that reached the Round of 16 at Euro 2024. Their pressing style could trouble any opponent.
• Jordan — Making their World Cup debut after reaching the Asian Cup final. They'll have nothing to lose against the champions.

Match Venues

Argentina's group stage matches will be played at some of the best venues in the tournament:

• Arrowhead Stadium (Kansas City) — vs Algeria
• AT&T Stadium (Dallas) — vs Austria
• AT&T Stadium (Dallas) — vs Jordan

If Argentina tops their group, they would likely play Round of 32 matches in Dallas or Kansas City before potential knockout stage matches at MetLife Stadium (the Final venue) or AT&T Stadium (Semifinal venue).

CONMEBOL Rivals

Argentina's South American rivals will all be looking to challenge for the title. Watch for potential clashes with:

• Brazil — The 5-time champions and eternal rivals, seeking revenge for 2022
• Colombia — Lost the 2024 Copa America final to Argentina
• Uruguay — The 2-time World Cup winners with a talented squad
• Ecuador — Rising South American force
• Paraguay — Traditional rivals in the Río de la Plata derby

World Cup History

Argentina has won the World Cup three times: 1978 (as hosts), 1986 (led by Diego Maradona), and 2022 (led by Lionel Messi). They have also been runners-up three times (1930, 1990, 2014). The team has reached the final of 6 World Cups, making them one of the most successful nations in tournament history.

How to Buy Argentina Tickets

Tickets for Argentina matches are among the highest-demand in the tournament. We compare prices from Ticketmaster, StubHub, Viagogo, and SeatGeek to help you find the best deals. Group stage tickets start from approximately $150, with knockout stage prices increasing significantly.